If you’re in search of a delightful seafood dish that brings the comforts of home cooking into minutes, look no further than these Shrimp Crab Melts. Imagine the satisfying crunch of biscuit combined with a rich, creamy stuffing of shrimp and crab meat—this combination makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these melty biscuit sandwiches are sure to hit the spot. With an irresistible savory flavor packed into every bite, the Shrimp Crab Melts are perfect for seafood lovers of all ages!
The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! Thanks to refrigerated biscuits, you can whip up these delicious melty delights in no time. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, leaving you free to enjoy more quality time with your family and friends. Plus, you’re getting the benefits of fresh seafood, with shrimp and crab providing protein while being deliciously rich and satisfying. Whether you serve them whole or sliced for sharing, these Shrimp Crab Melts are bound to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Crab Melts
- Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these melts are ready in just a few minutes.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of shrimp, crab, and mozzarella creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
- Comfort Food: Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, these biscuit sandwiches are the ultimate comfort snack.
- Great for Gatherings: Impress your guests with a unique and delicious seafood dish that everyone will love.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools and ingredients. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so that it’s at the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the Shrimp Crab Melts. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This will help ensure an even bake and make cleanup a breeze!
You’ll also want to have a large mixing bowl on hand for combining the filling ingredients. Depending on your preference, you might find a pastry brush useful for applying melted butter to the tops of your biscuit sandwiches, which adds a beautiful golden finish. Lastly, be sure to have a knife ready for slightly flattening each biscuit, which creates the perfect pocket for your creamy seafood filling.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup chopped cooked shrimp
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup lump crab meat
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 can flaky refrigerated biscuits (8 count)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that when you place your Shrimp Crab Melts in the oven, they’ll bake evenly, yielding a deliciously golden and crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
Take the can of flaky refrigerated biscuits and carefully remove them from the packaging. Gently flatten each biscuit on your prepared baking sheet. This process creates a larger surface area for stuffing the filling, allowing for a more satisfying melt!
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, and Old Bay seasoning. Make sure to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a creamy filling that embodies the essence of the sea. This potent blend offers both texture and flavor profiles that are rich while ensuring each bite is full of deliciousness!
Step 4: Assemble the Melts
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your Shrimp Crab Melts! Spoon a generous portion of the creamy seafood filling onto half of the flattened biscuits. Take the other half of the biscuits and place them on top of the filled ones, creating a sandwich. Make sure to press the edges firmly to seal them, preventing any delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 5: Brush With Butter and Bake
Before baking, give each sandwich a luxurious brush with melted butter. This step not only enhances the flavor but gives your melts a beautiful, mouthwatering golden color once baked. Now, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 13–15 minutes, or until the tops turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma that promises a delightful treat!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
After baking, allow the Shrimp Crab Melts to rest for about two minutes—this will make them easier to handle. From there, you have the option to serve them whole for a fun hand-held snack or slice them into smaller pieces for easy sharing. Regardless of how you decide to serve them, your family and friends will absolutely love the bites of creamy, cheesy seafood bliss!
Variations
- Protein: For a different take, consider replacing the shrimp with lobster or adding scallops for a gourmet twist.
- Vegetables: Enhance your melt with the addition of sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with seasonings—cajun spice can bring a heat factor, while garlic powder adds depth!
Cooking Notes
- Using freshly cooked shrimp is recommended for the best flavor—don’t forget to peel and devein if necessary.
- Ensure that cream cheese is at room temperature for easier combining with other ingredients.
- You can keep leftover filling and use it for crackers or on top of salads for a delicious seafood dip!
- If you’re cooking for a crowd, feel free to double the recipe—these Shrimp Crab Melts are always a hit!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these tasty melts with a fresh garden salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Serve with a side of tangy cocktail sauce or sriracha for a delightful dipping experience!
Tips
- For an extra crispy finish, place the sandwiches on a wire rack while baking to allow for air circulation.
- Experiment with different types of cheese—cheddar or pepper jack could add an exciting flavor twist!
- For a more intense crab flavor, you may choose to increase the lump crab meat slightly.
- These melts are perfect for meal prep! Assemble and freeze them before baking for a quick snack option later.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Simply thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping and adding to your filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, a mix of paprika, black pepper, and celery salt can create a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion
Incorporating your love for seafood into a quick and comforting snack, these Shrimp Crab Melts are bound to become a staple in your kitchen! The appealing combination of fresh seafood, rich cheeses, and light biscuits creates a tantalizing flavor experience that pleases any palate. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer endless opportunities for creativity with various additional ingredients and spices. This recipe is a fantastic choice, whether it’s for a family weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or simply a delicious bite for yourself. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations in the comments once you’ve tried them out—happy cooking and enjoy your Shrimp Crab Melts!
Print
Shrimp Crab Melts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Incorporating your love for seafood into a quick and comforting snack, these Shrimp Crab Melts are bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup chopped cooked shrimp
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup lump crab meat
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 can flaky refrigerated biscuits (8 count)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that when you place your Shrimp Crab Melts in the oven, they’ll bake evenly, yielding a deliciously golden and crispy exterior.
- Take the can of flaky refrigerated biscuits and carefully remove them from the packaging. Gently flatten each biscuit on your prepared baking sheet. This process creates a larger surface area for stuffing the filling, allowing for a more satisfying melt!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, and Old Bay seasoning. Make sure to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a creamy filling that embodies the essence of the sea. This potent blend offers both texture and flavor profiles that are rich while ensuring each bite is full of deliciousness!
- Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your Shrimp Crab Melts! Spoon a generous portion of the creamy seafood filling onto half of the flattened biscuits. Take the other half of the biscuits and place them on top of the filled ones, creating a sandwich. Make sure to press the edges firmly to seal them, preventing any delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
- Before baking, give each sandwich a luxurious brush with melted butter. This step not only enhances the flavor but gives your melts a beautiful, mouthwatering golden color once baked. Now, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 13–15 minutes, or until the tops turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma that promises a delightful treat!
- After baking, allow the Shrimp Crab Melts to rest for about two minutes—this will make them easier to handle. From there, you have the option to serve them whole for a fun hand-held snack or slice them into smaller pieces for easy sharing. Regardless of how you decide to serve them, your family and friends will absolutely love the bites of creamy, cheesy seafood bliss!
Notes
This recipe is a fantastic choice for a family weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or simply a delicious bite for yourself.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 18 g